U.S. Code > Title 42 The Public Health and Welfare > CHAPTER 13—SCHOOL LUNCH PROGRAMS > § 1769i. Program evaluation

§ 1769i. Program evaluation

(a) Performance assessments
(1) In general
Subject to the availability of funds made available under paragraph (3), the Secretary, acting through the Administrator of the Food and Nutrition Service, may conduct annual national performance assessments of the meal programs under this chapter and the Child Nutrition Act of 1966 (42 U.S.C. 1771 et seq.).
(2) Components
In conducting an assessment, the Secretary may assess—
(A) the cost of producing meals and meal supplements under the programs described in paragraph (1); and
(B) the nutrient profile of meals, and status of menu planning practices, under the programs.
(3) Authorization of appropriations
There is authorized to be appropriated to carry out this subsection $5,000,000 for fiscal year 2004 and each subsequent fiscal year.
(b) Certification improvements
(1) In general
Subject to the availability of funds made available under paragraph (5), the Secretary, acting through the Administrator of the Food and Nutrition Service, shall conduct a study of the feasibility of improving the certification process used for the school lunch program established under this chapter.
(2) Pilot projects
In carrying out this subsection, the Secretary may conduct pilot projects to improve the certification process used for the school lunch program.
(3) Components
In carrying out this subsection, the Secretary shall examine the use of—
(A) other income reporting systems;
(B) an integrated benefit eligibility determination process managed by a single agency;
(C) income or program participation data gathered by State or local agencies; and
(D) other options determined by the Secretary.
(4) Waivers
(A) In general
Subject to subparagraph (B), the Secretary may waive such provisions of this chapter and the Child Nutrition Act of 1966 (42 U.S.C. 1771 et seq.) as are necessary to carry out this subsection.
(B) Provisions
The protections of section 1758 (b)(6) of this title shall apply to any study or pilot project carried out under this subsection.
(5) Authorization of appropriations
There is authorized to be appropriated to carry out this subsection such sums as are necessary.